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A simple algorithm for generating streamflow networks for grid‐based, macroscale hydrological models
Author(s) -
O'Donnell Greg,
Nijssen Bart,
Lettenmaier Dennis P.
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
hydrological processes
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.222
H-Index - 161
eISSN - 1099-1085
pISSN - 0885-6087
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1099-1085(19990615)13:8<1269::aid-hyp806>3.0.co;2-r
Subject(s) - streamflow , digital elevation model , computer science , grid , surface runoff , simple (philosophy) , streams , algorithm , range (aeronautics) , hydrological modelling , hydrology (agriculture) , environmental science , remote sensing , geology , cartography , drainage basin , computer network , ecology , philosophy , materials science , geotechnical engineering , geodesy , epistemology , climatology , geography , composite material , biology
A simple algorithm for generating streamflow networks for macroscale hydrological models (MHMs) from digital elevation models (DEMs) is presented. Typically these hydrological models are grid based, with the simulated runoff produced within each cell routed through a stream network which connects the centers of cells in the direction of the major streams. Construction of such stream networks is a time consuming task, which has generally been done by hand with the aid of maps. Results indicate that the algorithm works satisfactorily in areas of both high and low relief, and for a wide range of model cell resolutions, although some manual adjustments may be necessary. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.